By Alex Lloyd Gross
The Chinese Lantern Festival is back at Franklin Square in Philadelphia. It truly is better than last year. This event is pretty cool, as it allows you to walk freely and see hand painted, silk lanterns that are multi-colored. From small little flowers or animals to giant dragons or elaborate structures. This year, quite a few of these exhibits have moving parts.
This year some lanterns have doors that open that reveal another smaller lantern inside that is illuminated. There are also parts that spin around, while they are lit as well. These exhibits are made in China and then shipped here. You can take a break and watch a live performance, there are contortionists as well as a martial arts dance. Benches are placed around the park for people watching, or should you need to take a break.
Admission during the day is free. About 5;00 PM the park is cleared out for the night showing. It is then that admission is charged. Weeknights are the least expensive and also less crowded. That becomes important when you want to take photos and someone walks in front of you. The Chinese Lantern Festival runs until the end of June.
Parking is on you, there are lots around and metered parking nearby is first come first served. Inside, you can also play a round of mini golf or even ride a carousel. Those two attractions are not included in the admission price. Franklin Square is at the intersection of 8th and Race Streets, across from the police Administration Building.